D23 Announces Expo Schedule

Taking place from August 19th-21st, 2011, in Anaheim, California, the D23 Expo is an event that’s been eagerly anticipated for two years — and now we have the schedule!

For those who aren’t sure what D23 is, they bill themselves as “the first official community for fans in Disney’s 88-year history.” A membership in D23 offers access to a quarterly magazine, an exclusive collectibles line, and special events like the D23 Expo (members still have to pay, but they do get a discount).

Including detailed presentations and information about many of Disney’s affiliated brands, the Expo will offer guests presentations from The Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, Disney Channel, and Marvel Comics. Guests will also be party to the 2011 Disney Legends Ceremony, where Regis Philbin and Jim Henson will be honored, among others.

As they saw in the last D23 Expo, guests will also have access to celebrity panels and autograph signings, TV show previews, news about the theme parks, and more.

3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts – Join Tom Staggs, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, as he gives D23 guests a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into some of the exciting projects currently underway at Disney’s parks and resorts around the world.

Saturday, August 20, 2011

11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
The Walt Disney Studios – A fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse at the exciting roster of projects on the horizon at The Walt Disney Studios. From exclusive video clips and live performances to filmmaker discussions and star appearances, this session will be hosted by Rich Ross, Chairman, The Walt Disney Studios; Sean Bailey, President of Production, The Walt Disney Studios; John Lasseter, Chief Creative Officer, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; and Kevin Feige, President of Production, Marvel Studios.

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
The Lion King 3D Exclusive D23 Screening – Disney fans will have access to an exclusive advance screening of The Lion King in Disney Digital 3D™, ahead of the film’s highly anticipated theatrical and home entertainment releases. “The Circle of Life” takes on a new dimension as Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa grace the screen once again, this time in breathtaking 3D.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Marvel Comics – An exclusive and unprecedented experience that will take you through the evolution of Marvel from its first comic book in 1939 to its current position as one of the most important creative forces in the world. During this presentation, which will include interactive Q&A segments, you will not only get an inside glimpse of the history of Marvel and its iconic Super Heroes but also discover why Marvel truly is the House of Ideas. This session will be hosted by Joe Quesada, Marvel’s Chief Creative Officer and one of the most respected and sought after writers and artists in the entertainment industry.

2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Disney Channel – Fans are invited to experience the excitement of a spectacular live performance, featuring stars of Disney Channel’s hit series Shake It Up. From meeting the cast of television’s first dance-driven sitcom and learning moves from a Disney Channel dance master to a special panel, autograph session and more, this unforgettable experience awaits Disney fans of all ages.

Additional Events
Guests can also plan to attend the Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament presented by Hasbro’s Trivial Pursuit, the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit – including the Fan Art Gallery, the D23 Expo Live Auction, and the D23 Expo Dream Store. Additional schedule, pavilion and talent announcements will be made in the coming weeks.

Tickets and Details
Tickets to the D23 EXPO are available at the D23 website. Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 EXPO, including the Disney Legends Ceremony, and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities.

Admission is $47 for a one-day adult ticket and $37 for children 3-12. Three-day passes are $136 for adults and $106 for children. D23 members will receive a discount for up to four admissions, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 EXPO for themselves and their guests.